ICUMSA Ratings Explained to Bulk Buyers: Understanding Sugar Purity Levels
The most important quality indications among those which you will find while buying sugar in bulk quantity will be the ICUMSA rating. It is this rating that determines the purity, color, and hence the suitability for use across industries, including but not limited to food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and confectionery. Sugar Purity Levels
If you source sugar for your business, then it is critical to understand the ICUMSA ratings in terms of product quality, regulation, and customer satisfaction. This guide takes you through all you need to know about what the ratings mean, their effect on the quality of sugar, and how to choose the right type for your business. Sugar Purity Levels
We are a company that deals in the provision of quality, ICUMSA-rated sugar in bulk: ICUMSA 45, 100, 150, 600–1200, among others, and at the same time meeting international standards regarding purity and performance. Sugar Purity Levels
What is ICUMSA?
ICUMSA is an abbreviation for International Commission for Uniform Methods of Sugar Analysis. It is an international body concerned with the formulation and establishment of uniform methods to test and classify the quality of sugar.
The color and purity of sugar are related to the ICUMSA rating, expressed in ICUMSA units. The lower the degree of ICUMSA, the whiter and purer the sugar; the higher the ICUMSA rating, the darker the sugar, with higher impurities such as content of molasses or natural pigments. Sugar Purity Levels
That is,
- Low ICUMSA = High Purity (White Sugar)
- High ICUMSA = Less Refined (Brown or Raw Sugar)
How ICUMSA Ratings Are Determined
The ICUMSA ratings refer to the unit of measurement of the absorbance of the sugar solution to a specific wavelength of light, 420 nm. The test, in other words, measures the percentage of light that is able to pass through the solution, which is directly proportional to the color intensity of the solution.
Here’s a simplified overview:
- The darker the sugar solution, the higher its ICUMSA value.
- The whiter the sugar, the lower the ICUMSA value.
This standardized system allows clear communication between the manufacturers and buyers of sugar from any part of the world about the quality of sugar, regardless of the language or region.
ICUMSA Ratings Chart – Common Grades for Bulk Buyers
The most traded primary ICUMSA sugar grades, and their respective characteristics, together with typical uses, are as follows:
| ICUMSA Rating | Color & Appearance | Purity (%) | Type of Sugar | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICUMSA 45 | Brilliant White, Sparkling Crystals | 99.8+ | Refined White Sugar | Soft drinks, Confectionery, Pharmaceuticals |
| ICUMSA 100–150 | White to Light Cream | 99.7–99.8 | Refined White or Extra Fine Sugar | Baking, beverages, processed foods |
| ICUMSA 200–600 | Golden White to Light Brown | 98.5–99.5 | Plantation White Sugar | General food manufacturing |
| ICUMSA 600–1200 | Brown to Dark Brown | 96–98 | Raw Sugar | Industrial refining, alcohol production |
| ICUMSA 2000+ | Very Dark Brown | <96 | Very Raw Sugar | Further refining, ethanol production |
ICUMSA 45 – The Standard for Refined White Sugar
ICUMSA 45 Sugar is highly refined and in demand all over the world. It may also be referred to as “Sparkling White Sugar” or “Refined Cane Sugar”, finding an extremely wide field of application in many industries, wherever the purest quality sweetener is needed.
Specification of ICUMSA 45 Sugar
- Color: Sparkling White
- Polarization: 99.8% minimum
- Ash Content: 0.04% maximum
- Moisture: 0.04% maximum
- Solubility: 100% dry and free-flowing
- Radiation: Within international permissible limits
- Odour/Taste: Free from any foreign odour or taste
- Granulation: Fine, even crystals
Applications
- Soft drinks and beverages
- Confectionery and bakery products
- Dairy and ice cream industries
- Pharmaceutical syrups and other medicinal preparations
The ICUMSA 45 sugar is especially suitable for those companies that need a high-quality, high-purity sugar for export, as well as for the direct consumer market. Sugar Purity Levels
ICUMSA 100–150 – Extra White Refined Sugar
With only a slightly lesser refinement than ICUMSA 45, this type of sugar is still of very high purity and considered good quality.
Specifications
- Color: White to Light Cream
- Polarization: 99.7–99.8% minimum
- Ash Content: 0.07% maximum
- Moisture: 0.06% maximum
- Granulation: Fine and uniform
Applications
- Pastry
- Processed foods
- Beverage manufacturing
- Packaged food products
ICUMSA 100–150 sugar is generally used in most industries and lines of manufacturing because it provides a good balance between cost efficiency and purity. Sugar Purity Levels
ICUMSA 600–1200 – Raw Cane Sugar
This is raw or semi-refined sugar that refineries may use as a basis from time to time. It has brownish coloring because of the residual molasses.
Specifications
- Color: Light to Dark Brown
- Polarization: 96–98% minimum
- Ash Content: 0.25% maximum
- Moisture: 0.15% maximum
Applications
- Further refining into white sugar
- Production of alcohol, ethanol, and rum
- Industrial fermentation
ICUMSA 600–1200 is good for refineries or industrial users who further process the sugar. Sugar Purity Levels
Why ICUMSA Ratings Matter for Bulk Buyers
Knowing the ICUMSA ratings will help you in buying sugar in bulk by:
1. Quality Consistency
The knowledge of the ICUMSA grade will help the manufacturer maintain uniform product quality between batches.
2. Industry Standards
Most of the industries that require sugar are those involving colour, purity, and taste, especially food, pharmaceutical, and beverages. Sugar Purity Levels
3. Cost Optimization
The low ICUMSA sugars cost more, such as ICUMSA 45, due to high refining, whereas the higher sugars, such as 600–1200, are cheaper. Selection of the correct grade avoids unnecessary costs.
4. Simplify Trade and Compliance
Because ICUMSA ratings are internationally recognized, there is more ease in contract negotiation and meeting of export-import requirements.
Global ICUMSA Sugar Supply from [Your Company Name]
We are a global supplier of bulk sugar, dealing in high-quality ICUMSA-rated sugars that represent international standards. We acquire our sugar from the most reliable producers, and it is refined under very strict quality control. Sugar Purity Levels
Our Product Range
- ICUMSA 45 Refined White Sugar
- ICUMSA 100–150 Extra White Sugar
- ICUMSA 600–1200 Raw Cane Sugar
- Brown Sugar (Golden & Dark)
- Liquid Sugar (Refined & Raw)
Packaging Options
- 25 and 50 kg polypropylene bags
- 1 MT jumbo bags
- Private labeling upon request
Shipping & Delivery
- Global supply network operating options: CIF, FOB, and CNF
- The originating ports include the major sugar-exporting countries
- SGS inspection available upon request
Quality Assurance
We work in the laboratory to ensure that all our sugar products meet the highest standards, conforming to all required specifications by ICUMSA. Each shipment shall be accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA) and SGS inspection report, ensuring further transparency and reliability. Sugar Purity Levels
We maintain:
- HACCP-certified processing
- ISO 9001:2015 quality management
- GMP-compliant facilities
- Kosher & Halal certifications
How to Choose the Right ICUMSA Sugar for Your Business
The kind of sugar you will choose greatly depends on your application, type of product, and budget. Here is a quick guide:
| Industry | Recommended ICUMSA Status | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Beverages | ICUMSA 45 | High clarity without aftertaste |
| Confectionery & Baking | ICUMSA 100–150 | Excellent texture and sweetness |
| Food Processing | ICUMSA 100–600 | Economical; widely used |
| Industrial Refining | ICUMSA 600–1200 | Suitable for further refining |
| Alcohol & Ethanol Production | ICUMSA 600–2000 | Raw sugar suitable for fermentation |
Benefits of Partnering with [Your Company Name]
- Global Export Capabilities: Serve a worldwide clientele with efficient logistics.
- Competitive Pricing: Direct mill partnerships ensure cost savings.
- Flexible Solutions: Custom packaging and labeling options.
- Reliable Supply Chain: Consistent quality—every time, on time.
- Expert Support: Export specialists to guide your purchase from order to delivery.
Whether you are a wholesaler, food manufacturer, or industrial buyer, we ensure that you get the right grade of sugar for your operation each and every time. Sugar Purity Levels
Bulk Order & Specifications Sheet
Below is a brief of our ICUMSA 45 Sugar Specification Sheet for bulk buyers:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Color | Sparkling White |
| ICUMSA Rating | 45 Max |
| Polarization | 99.8% Min |
| Ash Content | 0.04% Max |
| Moisture | 0.04% Max |
| Grain Size | Fine Crystals |
| Solubility | 100% Dry & Free Flowing |
| Sulphur Content | 20 ppm Max |
| Magnetic Particles | 4 mg/kg Max |
| Radiation | Within Int’l Permissible Limits |
| Origin | Various (depending on available supply) |
How to Place a Bulk Order
- Inquiry: Let us know your required ICUMSA grade, quantity, and destination port.
- Quotation: We will provide a fully detailed quotation, including freight and inspection options.
- Confirm & Contract: Lock in your order with a purchase agreement.
- Inspection & Shipping: To be inspected by SGS or equivalent before shipment.
- Delivery: We arrange for delivery at buyers’ preferred destinations—CIF, FOB, or CNF options.
For pricing, lead times, and logistics in your area, please contact our sales team. Sugar Purity Levels
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What does ICUMSA 45 mean?
It means that the sugar has an ICUMSA color of 45, which is refined, sparkling white sugar with purity at 99.8%.
Q2: Is ICUMSA 45 better than ICUMSA 100?
Yes, ICUMSA 45 is even more refined and pure; thus, it is suitable for industries requiring crystal-clear sugar. Sugar Purity Levels
Q3: Can ICUMSA 45 sugar be purchased in bulk?
Absolutely, we have bulk export quantities available with different packaging variants and logistical support.
Q4: What is the MOQ?
Usually, the MOQ is 1 container (27 MT). More flexible options are available for repeat buyers.
Q5: Do you provide SGS inspection?
Yes, SGS or equivalent inspection for quality assurance before shipment is provided. Sugar Purity Levels
Conclusion – Partner with a Trusted Global Sugar Supplier
Understanding the ICUMSA ratings is important for every bulk buyer, to help in choosing the right type of sugar according to purity, cost, and industrial needs. Sugar Purity Levels
Our specialty at our company is supplying ICUMSA-rated sugar all over the world with consistent quality, competitive pricing, and timely delivery.
Whether you need ICUMSA 45 refined white sugar or raw cane sugar, we have the right solution for your business. Sugar Purity Levels
Send us an inquiry today for a quotation or full specification sheet.
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